Springboks drop to all-time low no 7 in World Rugby rankings

Following a 22-20 defeat against Wales in Washington DC on Saturday, South Africa have dropped to no 7 in the World Rugby rankings, an all-time low for the Springboks.

Before Saturday’s one-off Test, South Africa were ranked sixth, between fifth-placed Scotland and Wales in seventh.

The two-point loss sees the Springboks docked 1.04 points from 83.81 to 82.77, while Wales gained 1.04 points, climbing to fifth position.

The All Blacks continue to rule the roost, 4.88 points above the Six Nations champions Ireland in second place.

Wales will now travel to Argentina for two Tests against the South Americans in June 9 and 16, while the Springboks will face England in a three-Test series, starting in Ellis Park on Saturday.

Latest World Rugby rankings top 20

1. New Zealand 93.99

2. Ireland 89.11

3. England 86.23

4. Australia 85.49

5. Wales 84.45

6. Scotland 83.83

7. South Africa 82.77

8. France 79.10

9. Argentina 78.22

10. Fiji 77.93

11. Japan 75.66

12. Georgia 73.96

13. Tonga 71.87

14. Italy 71.10

15. USA 69.23

16. Samoa 69.03

17. Romania 68.25

18. Uruguay 65.37

19. Russia 63.27

20. Spain 63.09